S.B. No. 1511 aims to enhance the regulation of freestanding emergency medical care facilities in Texas by establishing clearer definitions and guidelines for the provision of emergency care services and associated fees. The bill introduces a new definition of "Patient" as an individual seeking or receiving emergency care at a facility. It also emphasizes the purpose of the chapter, which is to protect patients by ensuring that facilities meet the required standards for emergency care, including the ability to stabilize and transfer patients. Additionally, the bill clarifies that facilities may provide non-emergency health care services and outlines that such services will be governed by applicable laws.

The bill includes specific provisions regarding the collection of fees for emergency care. It mandates that facilities can only charge a facility fee for emergency care services and prohibits them from charging such fees for non-emergency services. Furthermore, it requires facilities to post notices about their status as freestanding emergency medical care facilities, the potential for out-of-network billing, and the fees associated with their services. The bill also updates the disclosure statement requirements to ensure transparency regarding facility fees for emergency care. The provisions of this act will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 254.001, Health and Safety Code 254.155, Health and Safety Code 254.1555, Health and Safety Code 254.156 (Health and Safety Code 254)